Chromolaena is a genus of about 165 species of perennials and shrubs in the aster family, Asteraceae. The name is derived from the Greek words χρῶμα (chroma), meaning "color," and λαινα (laina), meaning "cloak." It refers to the colored phyllaries of some species. Members of the genus are native to the Americas, from the southern United States to South America (especially Brazil). One species, Chromolaena odorata, has been introduced to many parts of the world where it is considered a weed. In Australia some species are called "triffid weed"